Hey Rex.....Im considering getting a precision rifle of some type. Love the AR platform, but the .223 just doesnt have the power I'd prefer in a cartridge after 500 yards. Im considering a Ruger Precision Rifle chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor but also open to the .308 model. They discontinued the .243 which I originally wanted, and just introduced a 6mm version. Kinda odd I thought.
Anyway, what is your view of the Ruger Precision overall? I know its a cold forged barrel and heard you once mentioned that the Ruger Precision might
be susceptible to barrel erosion. What's your take?
Rex and John McQuay of 8541 Tactical are my "go to" guys on long range and precision rifles. John says the RPR is good to go. https://youtu.be/Cr30gKqqes4?list=PLA8F5OoMoTwGjmW-QSc3NnguDw-0iwLud
If Rex also give it his thumbs up, you should be fine. That said, however, I'm also looking forward to reviews on the new offerings from Howa, Bergara, and Savage.
I've been told that Begara makes a pretty good barrel.
Lastly, John did builds on .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor based on Mega Arms' uppers and lowers. Both are semi-auto, so you might want to check those videos out. I really enjoy shooting my .308 Mega, since I too am an AR kinda guy. BUT, based on REX's extreme cold weather video, I will be getting a bolt gun eventually!
Georgiadawg
Hey just thought I would throw in my two cents worth here. 243 is a excellent caliber, however in my opinion I think you'll see less of 243 a lot more 6mm and 6.5 variants. ( 6x47 Lapua, 6.5x47 Lapua, 6XC, and 6.5CM.... and the reason why as most of the guys on the long-range pro circuit's in Long Range all running those calibers predominately. Very few guys are still running with the 243.
I think Ruger S trying to also step up their game and become a little more competitive with savage and the value for dollar manufactured rifles . From what I've seen they seem to be running an aluminum chassis very much like the Savage BA 10. I'm not sure if you noticed but the Ruger Percision is not actually an AR platform but a bold action. However it does look very similar to the AR platform
For the money get a .308. Much larger selection in well just about everything from barrel to bullet at the distance you stated you'll be shooting. The 6.5 (yes I own one) is a fanboy caliber right now and I've noticed a spike in cost with building one.